CVE-2023-25506 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides an in-depth analysis of CVE-2023-25506, a vulnerability found in NVIDIA DGX servers that can lead to code execution, escalation of privileges, denial of service, and information disclosure.

Understanding CVE-2023-25506

CVE-2023-25506 is a vulnerability present in NVIDIA DGX-1 servers, specifically in the Ofbd component within the AMI SBIOS. This vulnerability allows a user with elevated privileges to exploit a preconditioned heap, potentially causing an access beyond the end of a buffer. The impact of this vulnerability can result in severe consequences like code execution, privilege escalation, denial of service, and information disclosure.

What is CVE-2023-25506?

The vulnerability in NVIDIA DGX-1 servers arises from a flaw in the Ofbd component within the AMI SBIOS. This flaw can be exploited by an attacker with elevated privileges to access memory beyond the intended buffer, leading to potential security risks such as code execution, privilege escalation, denial of service, and information disclosure.

The Impact of CVE-2023-25506

The impact of CVE-2023-25506 is significant, encompassing various consequences such as code execution, escalation of privileges, denial of service attacks, and potential information disclosure. This vulnerability can have far-reaching implications for the security and stability of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-25506

The vulnerability is assigned a CVSSv3.1 base score of 7.5 with a HIGH severity rating. It is characterized by a high attack complexity and requires elevated privileges for exploitation. The attack vector is local, with a scope that changes after exploitation. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts are all rated as HIGH. The vulnerability is identified by CWE-788.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Ofbd component of the AMI SBIOS in NVIDIA DGX-1 servers allows an attacker with high privileges to manipulate a heap, potentially leading to buffer overflow and subsequent security breaches.

Affected Systems and Versions

All NVIDIA DGX-1 servers with SBIOS versions prior to S2W_3A13 are affected by this vulnerability. Users of these systems should take immediate action to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-25506.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-25506 involves leveraging the vulnerability in the Ofbd component within the AMI SBIOS of NVIDIA DGX-1 servers to perform actions beyond the intended buffer, resulting in severe security implications.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2023-25506 requires a combination of immediate actions and long-term security practices to safeguard affected systems effectively.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update NVIDIA DGX-1 servers to the latest SBIOS version (S2W_3A13) to mitigate the vulnerability.
Implement strict access controls to limit the privileges of users with elevated permissions on the servers.
Monitor system behavior for any signs of exploitation or unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch systems to address known vulnerabilities promptly.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses in the infrastructure.
Educate users on best security practices and ensure compliance with security protocols and guidelines.

Patching and Updates

NVIDIA has released patches and updates to address the vulnerability in NVIDIA DGX-1 servers. Users are strongly advised to apply these patches immediately to enhance the security posture of their systems and prevent potential exploits associated with CVE-2023-25506.